GriswoldConnect taps into Teladoc system

PLYMOUTH MEETING, Pa. ­– Griswold Home Care has launched GriswoldConnect Powered by Teladoc, a service that allows the agency’s patients to speak with a physician and receive a diagnosis by phone or online, anytime, anywhere.

The collaboration marks the first time that Teladoc has paired with a home care provider.

“This partnership gives peace of mind to care recipients,” said Matt Murphy, CEO of Griswold, which has more than 180 home care locations throughout the U.S. “We hope it will also help reduce hospital readmissions.”

Teladoc serves more than 7,500 clients, including health plans, health systems, employers and other organizations. Over 17 million members use phones, mobile devices and secure online video to connect within minutes to the company’s network of board-certified, state-licensed physicians and behavioral health specialists, 24/7. Its call center is staffed by more than 400 employees.

Giving patients access to Teladoc’s services is in line with Griswold Home Care’s mission to leverage technology to provide great care.

“GriswoldConnect is all about relationships created in the home,” said Murphy.

The service will open up access to care for many who struggle with the high cost of health care while at home.

“What’s unique about home care is it’s still a private-pay enterprise,” said Murphy. “By having access to Teladoc’s network of physicians, families might be able to stretch their budget to get the care they need.”

Teladoc is always looking for partnerships that will increase utilization and provide access to care, said Dan Trencher, senior vice president, product and corporate strategy. It announced partnerships in February with smart health product maker Kinsa and health care technology and consulting company Compass Professional Health Services.

“At Teladoc we are anchoring our innovation in smart technologies and partnerships—in relevant, affordable, consumer-centric innovations—that will have a lasting impact, and contribute to a new and better care experience for our members,” Trencher said in a statement.

Murphy said Griswold’s collaboration with Teladoc makes sense.

“There’s a natural synergy to this partnership,” said Murphy. “So far it’s doing what we hoped it would do.”